• Buying soccer uniforms is a tricky business; just because you can see it in a catalog doesn't mean that you can actually buy it. Say What? That's right - we live in the days of imported product, so unless a product is produced domestically, you run the risk of a product not being in-stock or "available for sale" when you need it. And, the next time a boat is arriving with your particular style, color and size might be months away. Rest assured, Murphy's Law rules: it will always be "out of stock" when you need it most.

Solution #1: Order Early, Order Extras, Order Domestic

• Order Early: If your club makes the decision to buy from brands that import, order as early as humanly possible.  Remember, everyone plays soccer - and needs uniforms - at the same time of year. If you don't order early, you run the risk of not getting what you need. The Fall window is wide open on May 15th and slowly closes every day as you get closer to August 15th - waiting means you may be on the outside looking in.

• Order Extras: Think you only need "x" number of uniforms? Guess again. When you are ordering, always order a few extras for add-on players, guest players and players that lose their uniforms. Typically, clubs should order 7-10% more than they anticipate needing. You'll gain bulk pricing, avoid any surcharges and save on extra shipping (or expedited shipping) by purchasing extras with your bulk order - plus you'll have them exactly when you need them!

• Order domestic: Consider ordering from companies that produce their product in North America. Given a relatively small amount of time, these companies will be able to respond to your inventory needs at a far faster rate (days or weeks rather than months) than companies who import from overseas. With domestic producers, there is always a chance to get what you need no matter how ridiculous the request.

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